Maggiano’s Style Lasagna

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There’s something deeply comforting about a bubbling tray of lasagna fresh from the oven, and this Maggiano’s Style Lasagna delivers every layer of that magic. Inspired by the beloved Italian-American classic served at Maggiano’s Little Italy, this dish is rich, saucy, and loaded with cheesy goodness in every bite. The meaty red sauce mingles with tender pasta sheets and creamy ricotta, making each forkful feel like home.

Unlike the usual lasagna that leans heavily on store-bought shortcuts, this version celebrates simple ingredients prepared thoughtfully. The result? A robustly flavored dish with a balanced ratio of sauce, cheese, and pasta that never feels too heavy or too sparse. Whether you’re hosting family or preparing for a week of cozy dinners, this is one recipe that always satisfies.

Why You’ll Love This Maggiano’s Style Lasagna

This lasagna isn’t just hearty; it feels indulgent in the best way. Every layer is thoughtfully built with a meat sauce that simmers long enough to deepen in flavor and cheeses that melt into gooey perfection. It’s a dish that fills the kitchen with irresistible aroma and leaves you with satisfied smiles around the table.

Even better, it reheats beautifully. Make it ahead, freeze it, or enjoy it for next-day leftovers that taste just as good as the first round. It’s versatile enough for Sunday dinners and weeknight comfort alike.

Can I Use Oven-Ready Noodles for This Lasagna?

Yes, you can! While traditional boiled noodles work wonderfully and give a classic texture, oven-ready noodles can save you a bit of time and cleanup. If you’re using no-boil lasagna sheets, make sure your sauce has enough moisture, as they rely on it to soften properly during baking. If you’re aiming for a more old-school texture and that slightly chewy bite, boiling your pasta is worth the effort.

Ingredients for the Maggiano’s Style Lasagna

A beautiful lasagna starts with quality ingredients that build flavor with every layer. This one is no exception. Each element has a role to play in bringing that rich, meaty, cheesy flavor to life.

  • Ground beef: The heart of the meat sauce, providing rich flavor and protein.
  • Italian sausage: Adds a savory, slightly spicy depth to the sauce.
  • Onion: Gives a sweet and savory aromatic base.
  • Garlic: Essential for depth and classic Italian flavor.
  • Crushed tomatoes: These form the main body of your sauce and bring that signature tang.
  • Tomato paste: Thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor.
  • Italian seasoning: A balanced herb blend that enhances every layer.
  • Ricotta cheese: Creamy and slightly sweet, perfect for the cheese layer.
  • Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and gives that iconic cheese pull.
  • Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty depth to the cheesy layers.
  • Egg: Helps bind the ricotta mixture.
  • Fresh basil: Adds brightness and aroma.
  • Lasagna noodles: The foundation for all the delicious layers.
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How To Make the Maggiano’s Style Lasagna

Step 1: Build the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat. Once browned, add in the onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer gently for 20 to 30 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, half of the Parmesan, a handful of chopped fresh basil, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and set aside.

Step 3: Boil the Noodles (If Not Using Oven-Ready)

Cook your lasagna noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and lay flat on parchment or a clean towel to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Layer the Lasagna

In a large baking dish, spread a spoonful of sauce on the bottom. Add a layer of noodles, then spread a layer of the ricotta mixture, followed by the meat sauce, then a generous sprinkle of mozzarella. Repeat the layers until the dish is nearly full. Finish with a final layer of noodles, meat sauce, mozzarella, and a good handful of Parmesan on top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the lasagna with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

How to Serve and Store This Lasagna

Once your Maggiano’s Style Lasagna is out of the oven, let it rest so the layers can set beautifully. It slices cleanly and serves up elegantly when given just a bit of cooling time. This recipe feeds about 8 people comfortably and works great as a main dish for family-style dining.

For storing, let the lasagna cool completely and then cover tightly or portion into airtight containers. It keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days or freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. When reheating, a quick bake covered in foil helps retain that gooey texture.

What to Serve With Lasagna?

Garlic Bread with Herbed Butter

Crunchy on the outside, soft inside, and dripping with garlic-herb butter. A perfect way to soak up extra sauce.

Classic Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a crisp contrast to the warm lasagna.

Roasted Asparagus with Lemon

Add something bright and green to the plate with simple roasted asparagus kissed with citrus.

Caesar Salad with Homemade Dressing

Creamy, tangy Caesar dressing and crunchy croutons balance the richness of the lasagna.

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta

For a double-carb delight or a large dinner party, this creamy side complements the savory lasagna layers well .

Italian Antipasto Platter

Marinated olives, artichokes, and cured meats bring extra flair and variety to the meal.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Rustic and hearty, these bring a comfort-food vibe to your dinner table.

Red Wine or Sparkling Water with Citrus

A smooth red or a bright bubbly drink helps cleanse the palate.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Maggiano’s Style Lasagna, you’re going to want to try more hearty, comforting pasta recipes next. These favorites will keep your dinner rotation flavorful and fun:

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s always ready when you’re in the mood for comfort food with an Italian twist.

If you gave this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you stick to the original or make it your own with extra spices or veggies? Share your tips and tweaks in the comments!

Explore more of my Italian-inspired dishes and comforting weeknight favorites on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and uncover your next cozy classic.

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Maggiano’s Style Lasagna


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  • Author: Janet Reynolds
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Description

This hearty Maggiano’s Style Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food, layered with rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and perfectly cooked noodles. A restaurant-style Italian lasagna recipe that’s perfect for Sunday dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead family meals. Discover how to make this classic baked pasta dish at home with simple ingredients and big flavor.


Ingredients

12 lasagna noodles

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound ground beef

1 pound Italian sausage

1 small yellow onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

15 ounces ricotta cheese

1 large egg

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Salt, to taste

Pepper, to taste


Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and sausage, cook until browned.

3. Stir in onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

4. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning. Simmer sauce for 25 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

5. In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg, half of the Parmesan, fresh basil, and a pinch of salt. Mix until creamy.

6. Boil lasagna noodles according to package directions, then lay flat on parchment to prevent sticking.

7. Spread a small amount of sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.

8. Layer noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella. Repeat until all ingredients are used.

9. Top final layer with sauce, mozzarella, and remaining Parmesan.

10. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

11. Let rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

This lasagna freezes well—assemble, cover, and freeze before baking.

For extra depth, add a splash of red wine to the sauce while simmering.

Use freshly grated cheese for better melt and flavor.

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 870mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

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